20 Secrets Massage Therapists Know About Your Body

In just one hourlong session, they can decode everything from whether you need a new pillow to how badly those childhood accidents affected you.

Whether you’re constipated

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Uh-huh, we feel it immediately. Your stomach is firm to the touch. But it’s OK—we’ll get things moving for you, and teach you some self-techniques too (like tracing the words “I love you” into your stomach). Don’t blush: We all tend to need support in that area sometimes.

If your allergies are flaring

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You have pressure points over your eyes, forehead, cheeks, and even around your jaw. When these are tender and inflamed, and the quality of the tissue feels different, we know you might be dealing with pesky allergies. Lymph nodes in the chest, around the neck, and under the armpits will also be tender and swollen.